Afghanistan shock Australia to keep semi-final hopes alive

• Afghanistan defeated Australia by 21 runs in the T20 World Cup, marking their first win over Australia in any form of cricket
• Afghanistan posted 148-6, with a crucial opening stand of 118 between Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran
• Australia was reduced to 32-3 early in their chase, and despite Glenn Maxwell’s rapid half-century, they collapsed from 106-6 to 113-9
• Afghanistan is now back in contention for the semi-finals and will play Bangladesh next.
• Australia needs to win their next match against India to have a chance at progressing to the semi-finals

T20 World Cup: Afghanistan shock Australia to keep semi-final hopes alive

Afghanistan shocked Australia with a historic 21-run win in St Vincent, keeping their T20 World Cup hopes alive. Needing a victory to avoid elimination, Afghanistan posted a challenging total of 148-6, thanks to a superb opening stand of 118 between Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran.

Australia’s chase faltered early, reduced to 32-3 before Glenn Maxwell’s rapid half-century steadied the ship. However, Gulbadin Naib’s crucial wickets, including Maxwell’s, triggered an Australian collapse from 106-6 to 113-9, sealing Afghanistan’s first win over Australia in any form of cricket.

Pat Cummins took his second hat-trick in as many games, a first in T20 internationals, but Afghanistan’s total proved insurmountable. Player of the match Gulbadin Naib expressed pride in the victory, calling it a great moment for his nation.

Afghanistan is now back in contention for the semi-finals and will face Bangladesh next. Meanwhile, Australia must win their upcoming match against India in St Lucia to stay in the competition.